Dallas: Deep Ellum Historic District

Street sign that says Historic Deep Ellum, Est. 1873, in front of a water tower
Building mural of a man playing guitar that says Deep Ellum

Murals and public art can be found throughout Deep Ellum.

Free standing cement panel with drawing of a woman singing. Says Deep Ellum, MW ‘97
Building mural with a musical theme and Dallas skyline

Deep Ellum was a pre-World War II center of African-American culture, this mural depicts its musical heritage.

Photograph of man with guitar autographed Cordially Yours, Blind Lemon Jefferson

Blind Lemon Jefferson, publicity photograph taken between 1926 and 1929.

Record label that says Paramount, Black Horse Blues, Blind Lemon Jefferson

The former Freedmen’s community of Deep Ellum was a thriving African American community with a powerful heritage relating to music and the arts. In the 1920s–30s, blues musicians Blind Lemon Jefferson, Bessie Smith and Sam “Lightnin’” Hopkins played in the district’s clubs.  This heritage continues to be celebrated in the area’s live music venues, cafes, and lively murals.

Deep Ellum Historic District

  • 2500-3500 Blocks of Elm, Main, and Commerce Streets, Dallas, TX
  • Visit Website
SITE MAP
PREVIOUS
SITES LIST
NEXT